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304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
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Eager to pursue higher education but worried your bad credit will stand in the way? Fear not. Bad credit—typically a FICO® Score of 579 or less—doesn’t automatically disqualify you from getting a student loan. In fact, federal student loans can be an excellent choice for college students with low credit scores. Here’s what you need to know.
Federal student loans should be your first consideration when borrowing money for college, especially if your credit score needs some work. However, if you’re ineligible for federal loans or you’ve reached your federal loan limit, private student loans can be a decent option.
Federal student loans are often the best option for college students because most loan programs don’t require a credit check or a cosigner. If you’re a graduate student or a parent, the direct PLUS loan program does require a credit check but only to rule out borrowers with major negative items on their credit reports, such as bankruptcy, foreclosure, and loan default.
Additionally, federal loans offer standardized interest rates, which means that all borrowers get the same rate regardless of their creditworthiness. You can apply for federal student loans by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Depending on your situation, you may be eligible for subsidized or unsubsidized loans.
Private student loans typically require a credit check to get approved, so if you’re considering one, it’s a good idea to get a cosigner, such as a parent, to apply with you. Some private loans require cosigners, but even if they don’t, you may have a hard time getting approved on your own. Because a cosigner agrees to repay the loan if you can’t, their creditworthiness can not only help you get approved but also secure more favorable loan terms.
There are some lenders that may be willing to work with you without a cosigner—instead using your degree program and prospective career to define your creditworthiness. However, these options tend to be very costly ways to borrow. Take your time to shop around and compare several lenders to determine the right one for you based on your needs.
If you ultimately decide to take out a private student loan, improving your credit scores can help you qualify for lower interest rates and save you a lot of money in the long run. Here are some strategies for improving bad credit or building credit from the ground up:
Federal student loans are a form of financial aid, but there are several other options available that don’t require repayment, including scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. Here are some ways to evaluate your options and test your eligibility:
Beyond student loans, consider these options for paying for college:
Federal student loans typically do not require a credit check, so your credit score is not a factor. However, private student loans usually require a credit check, and a higher credit score can help you secure better terms.
If you’re denied a student loan, consider improving your credit score, finding a cosigner, or exploring alternative funding options like scholarships, grants, and work-study programs.
While your credit score may limit your options for obtaining a loan or credit card right now, developing good credit habits and rebuilding your credit score can put you in a better position to get approved for inexpensive financing options when you need them in the future. With Experian’s free credit monitoring service, you’ll get access to your FICO® Score and Experian credit report, making it possible for you to pinpoint areas that need to be addressed and also track your progress.
For any mortgage service needs, contact O1ne Mortgage at 213-732-3074. Our team of experts is here to help you navigate the complexities of securing a loan, even with bad credit. Don’t let your credit score hold you back from achieving your educational and financial goals. Call us today!
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